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Course information
During your degree, you’ll develop your understanding of contemporary ethical approaches to horse training and management based on the most up-to-date scientific research, applying theory to practice in real-world settings including our commercial equine yard that’s home to 230 horses and riders of all levels.
We’ll support you to adopt an innovative and scientific mind-set, building both specialist and transferable skills to help you stand out when you graduate. Alongside developing equine-specific expertise, you’ll refine entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Work placements will enable you to build a successful career while improving the wider industry.
Graduate opportunities are diverse and could include working for equine charities and welfare organisations or with individuals to improve horse-rider relationships. Graduates of this course will play a vital role in education and implementation of best practice.
UCAS tariff points | 32-48 UCAS tariff points.
A Levels | EE-DD or equivalent from at least one full A Level.
Vocational Awards | PPP in an Extended Diploma.
Access | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
International Baccalaureate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include one Higher at H3 or above.
Scottish Highers | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher.
T Level | An overall grade of Pass.
Additional Information
In addition to the above, we require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), to include English and Maths. We will consider equivalencies including but not limited to functional skills level 2, Irish Ordinary level, National 5s, IB standard level.
We will consider combinations of level three qualifications.
We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process.
Your support network
You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Innovation, Careers and Enterprise) centres.
Academic support
You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.
Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.
Your learning experiences
You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.
Your career
Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory and optional modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career. The course is taught in English.
Course information
Overview
During your degree, you’ll develop your understanding of contemporary ethical approaches to horse training and management based on the most up-to-date scientific research, applying theory to practice in real-world settings including our commercial equine yard that’s home to 230 horses and riders of all levels.
We’ll support you to adopt an innovative and scientific mind-set, building both specialist and transferable skills to help you stand out when you graduate. Alongside developing equine-specific expertise, you’ll refine entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Work placements will enable you to build a successful career while improving the wider industry.
Graduate opportunities are diverse and could include working for equine charities and welfare organisations or with individuals to improve horse-rider relationships. Graduates of this course will play a vital role in education and implementation of best practice.
Entry requirements
UCAS tariff points | 32-48 UCAS tariff points.
A Levels | EE-DD or equivalent from at least one full A Level.
Vocational Awards | PPP in an Extended Diploma.
Access | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
International Baccalaureate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include one Higher at H3 or above.
Scottish Highers | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher.
T Level | An overall grade of Pass.
Additional Information
In addition to the above, we require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), to include English and Maths. We will consider equivalencies including but not limited to functional skills level 2, Irish Ordinary level, National 5s, IB standard level.
We will consider combinations of level three qualifications.
We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process.
Employability
Your career
How you'll study
Your support network
You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Innovation, Careers and Enterprise) centres.
Academic support
You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.
Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.
Your learning experiences
You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.
Your career
Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory and optional modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career. The course is taught in English.
Modules
What you'll study
On this course, you'll cover a range of fundamental behaviour and welfare topics through a combination of compulsory and optional modules, which you'll be able to choose from to suit your interests and career goals.
Compulsory topics will include management of equine wellbeing, equine learning and cognition, and measurements of equine behaviour. Optional modules will allow you to specialise your degree to suit your interests and career aspirations.
Module credits
On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your award. The marks you gain in your second and third years may contribute towards your final degree classification.
Your foundation year will focus on study skills and specific knowledge around human-animal interactions. This will support you moving into year one. In addition, you’ll be introduced to equine science and the equine industry.
Compulsory Modules
Academic Literacy for University Studies
Understand and explore topics including the scientific method and enquiry, team working, research skills, and effective time management.
Professional Development in Practice (Internship)
An opportunity to explore graduate destinations associated with your programme of study, building a portfolio of experiences aiding your professional development.
Exploring Current Concepts
Develop understanding and knowledge of literature reviews including constructing a rationale and summarising and presenting relevant information to suit a purpose, subject and audience.
Equine Studies
The module aims to introduce central anatomy, physiology, welfare and health that underpin best husbandry and management practices, along with key legislation and health and safety requirements in the equine industry.
Business Enterprise and Management
This module covers the learning and understanding of the balance of theory and practice in contemporary business practice; an appreciation of the complexity of modern organisational environments and the critical role of enterprise and innovation.
You’ll focus on key topics relating to equine learning and welfare to gain knowledge and fundamental study skills that underpin your course and equip you to study at higher levels. You'll also begin to explore human behaviours and interactions to gain skills for influencing future change in equitation science, training and beyond.
Compulsory Modules
Equitation Science
The module aims to give an introduction to evidence-based learning principles for horses and the impact of environmental effects on learning.
Professional Development and Influence within the Equestrian Sector
An introduction to learning theory and human behaviour in relation to developing an understanding of reflection of self and how humans interact and influence others.
Principles of Equine Welfare
An introduction to equine ethology including behavioural ecology, senses, cognition and basic needs in relation to optimal horse welfare.
Managing Equine Wellbeing
Generally, horses spend around an hour per day being trained or exercised. This module focuses on the principals of horse welfare and management for the other 23 hours.
Introduction to Equine Nutrition
Study of the basic principles of equine feeding and nutrition.
In this year, more in-depth topics will be explored, taking the fundamental knowledge learned in year one to explore the key factors and principles which underpin behaviour and welfare measurements in more detail. You'll also be supported to complete a work placement, enabling you to gain experience and make connections, ready for your career. Alongside compulsory modules, you’ll select from a range of optional modules to further develop your specialist expertise.
Compulsory Modules
Measuring Equine Behaviour and Welfare
Use of behavioural, physiological and physical measures of welfare and welfare assessment in different contexts.
Professional Placement Experience in the Equestrian Sector
You'll be supported to complete a minimum of 150 hours of work experience during the year, which can be in a variety of equine focused establishments in the UK or abroad.
Equine Performance
Understand how performance horses are exercised and trained to meet specific demands of various disciplines.
Equine Learning and Cognition
This module further develops the understanding of learning theory, attachment theory, emotions and learning in relation to evidence-based training of horses.
Optional Modules
Equestrian Event Management and Fundraising
Explore the operational aspects of event management and the customer experience.
Equine Nutrition
The study of the horse’s digestive system, their required nutrient intake for different activities, and how to manage the horse’s diet.
Independent Report
A chance to review an approved topic area in line with your programme of study and develop your independent working skills.
Either International Academic Study Portfolio OR International Academic Study Project
International Academic Study Portfolio
A reflection upon a period of international study.
International Academic Study Project
A reflection upon a period of international study.
Study Trip
You will engage in a programme relevant study trip which will provide a context for you to synthesise content from across your programme of study and make applications and inferences to this real world setting, while expanding your horizons.
Integrated placement year (optional)
An integrated placement year before your final year allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice and gain valuable industry experience. Many students get their graduate careers with the organisation with which they completed their work placement.
Level six (final year)
Your final year allows you to focus on areas of particular interest to you, in line with your career aspirations. One module is your dissertation, a substantial research project that enables you to plan, implement and report on a specialist topic of your choice.
In addition, you'll be exposed to contemporary challenges and developments in the field of equine behaviour, gaining an insight into the direction of emerging research. Optional modules will support you to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills, including negotiation and conflict resolution, preparing you to drive changes in the industry to improve equine training, behaviour management and welfare.
Compulsory Modules
Undergraduate Dissertation
Partake in independent research and analysis in a related area of your choice.
Research in Equine Behaviour
This module will enable you to undertake a critical review in a chosen area and design a pilot study utilising behavioural, physiological and/or physical measures in order to advance the current evidence base in relation to current management practices.
Equine Ethics and Welfare
Students will build their knowledge of ethical philosophy and key equine welfare contributors/research to enable discussion of contemporary industry issues.
People, Leadership and Change
Exploring the structure, diversity and culture of organisations in relation to leadership and change management.
Optional Modules
Equine Nutrition for Performance
Evolution of feeding strategies to support athletic performance in the horse, whilst maintaining good health.
Sales, Negotiation and Customer Service
Gain strategies and techniques to develop communications skills in order to influence, sell and negotiate within the equine industry.
Sustainability and Global Responsibility within the Equestrian Sector
Explore and analyse current business practice within the global equestrian industry in relation to long term sustainability.
Undergraduate Independent Study
A chance to critically review an approved topic of your choice linked to the programme aims.
Volunteering within the Equine Charity Sector
Practically apply theory and knowledge of the equine charity sector to a real-life volunteering environment, proposing methods of raising awareness of their work as an organisation and reflecting on personal development during time spent in industry.
Modules
Overview
What you'll study
On this course, you'll cover a range of fundamental behaviour and welfare topics through a combination of compulsory and optional modules, which you'll be able to choose from to suit your interests and career goals.
Compulsory topics will include management of equine wellbeing, equine learning and cognition, and measurements of equine behaviour. Optional modules will allow you to specialise your degree to suit your interests and career aspirations.
Module credits
On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your award. The marks you gain in your second and third years may contribute towards your final degree classification.
Level three foundation year (year one)
Your foundation year will focus on study skills and specific knowledge around human-animal interactions. This will support you moving into year one. In addition, you’ll be introduced to equine science and the equine industry.
Compulsory Modules
Academic Literacy for University Studies
Understand and explore topics including the scientific method and enquiry, team working, research skills, and effective time management.
Professional Development in Practice (Internship)
An opportunity to explore graduate destinations associated with your programme of study, building a portfolio of experiences aiding your professional development.
Exploring Current Concepts
Develop understanding and knowledge of literature reviews including constructing a rationale and summarising and presenting relevant information to suit a purpose, subject and audience.
Equine Studies
The module aims to introduce central anatomy, physiology, welfare and health that underpin best husbandry and management practices, along with key legislation and health and safety requirements in the equine industry.
Business Enterprise and Management
This module covers the learning and understanding of the balance of theory and practice in contemporary business practice; an appreciation of the complexity of modern organisational environments and the critical role of enterprise and innovation.
Level four (year two)
You’ll focus on key topics relating to equine learning and welfare to gain knowledge and fundamental study skills that underpin your course and equip you to study at higher levels. You'll also begin to explore human behaviours and interactions to gain skills for influencing future change in equitation science, training and beyond.
Compulsory Modules
Equitation Science
The module aims to give an introduction to evidence-based learning principles for horses and the impact of environmental effects on learning.
Professional Development and Influence within the Equestrian Sector
An introduction to learning theory and human behaviour in relation to developing an understanding of reflection of self and how humans interact and influence others.
Principles of Equine Welfare
An introduction to equine ethology including behavioural ecology, senses, cognition and basic needs in relation to optimal horse welfare.
Managing Equine Wellbeing
Generally, horses spend around an hour per day being trained or exercised. This module focuses on the principals of horse welfare and management for the other 23 hours.
Introduction to Equine Nutrition
Study of the basic principles of equine feeding and nutrition.
Level five (year three)
In this year, more in-depth topics will be explored, taking the fundamental knowledge learned in year one to explore the key factors and principles which underpin behaviour and welfare measurements in more detail. You'll also be supported to complete a work placement, enabling you to gain experience and make connections, ready for your career. Alongside compulsory modules, you’ll select from a range of optional modules to further develop your specialist expertise.
Compulsory Modules
Measuring Equine Behaviour and Welfare
Use of behavioural, physiological and physical measures of welfare and welfare assessment in different contexts.
Professional Placement Experience in the Equestrian Sector
You'll be supported to complete a minimum of 150 hours of work experience during the year, which can be in a variety of equine focused establishments in the UK or abroad.
Equine Performance
Understand how performance horses are exercised and trained to meet specific demands of various disciplines.
Equine Learning and Cognition
This module further develops the understanding of learning theory, attachment theory, emotions and learning in relation to evidence-based training of horses.
Optional Modules
Equestrian Event Management and Fundraising
Explore the operational aspects of event management and the customer experience.
Equine Nutrition
The study of the horse’s digestive system, their required nutrient intake for different activities, and how to manage the horse’s diet.
Independent Report
A chance to review an approved topic area in line with your programme of study and develop your independent working skills.
Either International Academic Study Portfolio OR International Academic Study Project
International Academic Study Portfolio
A reflection upon a period of international study.
International Academic Study Project
A reflection upon a period of international study.
Study Trip
You will engage in a programme relevant study trip which will provide a context for you to synthesise content from across your programme of study and make applications and inferences to this real world setting, while expanding your horizons.
Integrated placement year (optional)/Level six (final year)
Integrated placement year (optional)
An integrated placement year before your final year allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice and gain valuable industry experience. Many students get their graduate careers with the organisation with which they completed their work placement.
Level six (final year)
Your final year allows you to focus on areas of particular interest to you, in line with your career aspirations. One module is your dissertation, a substantial research project that enables you to plan, implement and report on a specialist topic of your choice.
In addition, you'll be exposed to contemporary challenges and developments in the field of equine behaviour, gaining an insight into the direction of emerging research. Optional modules will support you to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills, including negotiation and conflict resolution, preparing you to drive changes in the industry to improve equine training, behaviour management and welfare.
Compulsory Modules
Undergraduate Dissertation
Partake in independent research and analysis in a related area of your choice.
Research in Equine Behaviour
This module will enable you to undertake a critical review in a chosen area and design a pilot study utilising behavioural, physiological and/or physical measures in order to advance the current evidence base in relation to current management practices.
Equine Ethics and Welfare
Students will build their knowledge of ethical philosophy and key equine welfare contributors/research to enable discussion of contemporary industry issues.
People, Leadership and Change
Exploring the structure, diversity and culture of organisations in relation to leadership and change management.
Optional Modules
Equine Nutrition for Performance
Evolution of feeding strategies to support athletic performance in the horse, whilst maintaining good health.
Sales, Negotiation and Customer Service
Gain strategies and techniques to develop communications skills in order to influence, sell and negotiate within the equine industry.
Sustainability and Global Responsibility within the Equestrian Sector
Explore and analyse current business practice within the global equestrian industry in relation to long term sustainability.
Undergraduate Independent Study
A chance to critically review an approved topic of your choice linked to the programme aims.
Volunteering within the Equine Charity Sector
Practically apply theory and knowledge of the equine charity sector to a real-life volunteering environment, proposing methods of raising awareness of their work as an organisation and reflecting on personal development during time spent in industry.
The modules contain a mixture of scheduled learning – lectures, workshops and practical sessions – alongside independent learning - students are expected to dedicate at least two to three hours of independent study per contact hour. Your course will also include work placement learning as part of some modules.
The Foundation Year includes an internship using Hartpury’s on-site facilities and industry links.
The course is taught in English.
This programme is currently undergoing consultation but it is estimated that the course will comprise of the following teaching modes.
| Year | Contact learning | Independent learning | Placement learning |
| Level three (year one) | 24% | 76% | 0% |
| Level four (year two) | 24% | 76% | 0% |
| Level five (year three) | 19% | 69% | 12% |
| Placement year (optional) | 1% | 19% | 80% |
| Level six (final year) | 17% | 83% | 0% |
The modules contain a mixture of scheduled learning – lectures, workshops and practical sessions – alongside independent learning - students are expected to dedicate at least two to three hours of independent study per contact hour. Your course will also include work placement learning as part of some modules.
The Foundation Year includes an internship using Hartpury’s on-site facilities and industry links.
The course is taught in English.
This programme is currently undergoing consultation but it is estimated that the course will comprise of the following teaching modes.
| Year | Written exam | Coursework | Practical exam |
| Level three (year one) | 13% | 50% | 37% |
| Level four (year two) | 19% | 33% | 48% |
| Level five (year three) | 20% | 49% | 31% |
| Placement year (optional) | 0% | 100% | 0% |
| Level six (final year) | 13% | 63% | 24% |
This programme is taught over two semesters, normally consisting of 12 weeks of scheduled teaching and then assessment weeks.
- Scheduled teaching takes place between 8:30 to 20:30 Monday to Friday
- Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities
- Work placements may entail different days and hours
- Part-time students may need to attend learning activities five days each week, depending on modules selected
- Timetables are available during enrolment week
Our Resource Library is where you'll find all the essential details about Hartpury University's courses. It includes Programme and Module Specifications, along with Course Information Sheets for every course. You can easily download a complete revision history for each of these, clearly showing the dates changes were made.
Course Information Sheets: These are PDF versions of the course webpages. They provide an overview of the course, what to expect during your studies, and the topics covered.
Programme Specifications: These are detailed, validated documents containing academic specifics for each programme. They include descriptions of the programme, its aims, learning outcomes, year and module structure, as well as teaching, learning, and assessment strategies.
Module Specifications: Each Programme consists of several Modules. Our Module Specifications outline the topics covered and the expected outcomes for students studying each Module.
If you’re playing sport competitively, or you have the talent and drive to do so, you may want to join one of our Sports Academies. Over 200 international athletes have developed their talents with us over the past 10 years. You could be our next success story. We're a semi-professional sports environment offering world-class facilities and professional coaching and support services.
Settle into an accommodation option to suit your taste and budget – at Hartpury University, undergraduate students can choose to live on-campus surrounded by Gloucestershire’s beautiful countryside or off-campus in the heart of Gloucester City centre. Enjoy the best of both worlds.
We can help you understand how it all works, and what you need to do next. Find out everything you need to know about tuition fees, student loans and bursaries and scholarships. In 2021/22, we provided assistance to over 1/3 of our students through bursaries, scholarships and grants, totalling a little under £1million.
TEF Gold
Our undergraduate provision has been awarded Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold in all aspects - Overall, Student Experience, and Student Outcomes.
Teaching quality
Ranked in the top 10 universities for teaching quality (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2025).
Graduate employability
97% of our graduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity (Graduate Outcomes, 2024).
Academic support
We’re a top 10 university for academic support (NSS 2024, UK universities).
“Being at Hartpury gives me a lot of flexibility to combine my riding and get the support I need with my degree. The Achievement and Success Centre, in particular, has given me a lot of help. It’s meant I’ve done well academically. Getting a degree has been really rewarding.”
Daniel Olley
BSc (Hons) Equine Business Management
"Completing my work placement at Hartpury’s summer equine events was a great experience. I learnt how to run events, secure sponsorship deals, organise volunteers, and ensure arenas and stables are ready for competitors. I even got to compete in an event myself. I built contacts and connections with a range of people, including the Hartpury Equine management team, which lead to my role as Yard Technician today."
Clarissa Burnell-Price
"Completing my work placement at Hartpury’s summer equine events was a great experience. I learnt how to run events, secure sponsorship deals, organise volunteers, and ensure arenas and stables are ready for competitors. I even got to compete in an event myself. I built contacts and connections with a range of people, including the Hartpury Equine management team, which lead to my role as Yard Technician today."
Clarissa Burnell-Price
Important information
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are reviewed and developed regularly. Changes or cancellation of courses may be necessary to ensure alignment with emerging employment areas, to comply with accrediting body requirements, revisions to subject benchmark statements or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make necessary changes and will notify all offer-holders of changes as and when they occur.
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BSc (Hons) Equine Science (with Foundation Year)
If you’re fascinated by the horse as an athlete and want to learn more about how these incredible animals work, then this is the course for you.
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